Ep 6. Tournament of Shadows

In "Ripper Street" season 1 episode 6, "Tournament of Shadows," the focus is on the victims of a tragic accident in Whitechapel. A train carrying prisoners crashes, leaving dozens dead and injured. The events that follow culminate in a thrilling investigation that draws on the resources of the entire police force, and leads to shocking revelations about the depths of depravity that exist within the city's criminal underworld.

The episode opens as the train carrying the prisoners is wrecked, leaving dozens of bodies strewn across the tracks and surrounding fields. Inspector Reid (Matthew MacFadyen) leads the investigation, but soon discovers that there are forces at work within the city that are determined to keep him from learning the truth. Meanwhile, sergeants Drake (Jerome Flynn) and Jackson (Adam Rothenberg) are sent to interview the few surviving prisoners, hoping to gain insight into what might have caused the accident.

As the investigation progresses, Reid discovers that the train may have been targeted in order to eliminate a dangerous prisoner who was on board. But as he delves deeper, he realizes that the truth is far more complex than he initially thought. He uncovers a vast network of criminals who have been operating within the city, using the prisoners as bargaining chips in a dangerous game of political maneuvering.

The episode is tense and suspenseful throughout, as the investigators race against time to uncover the truth and prevent further bloodshed. There are several action-packed scenes, including a thrilling chase through the streets of Whitechapel, and a brutal confrontation between Reid and one of the city's most notorious criminals.

Throughout the episode, the writers continue to develop the relationships between the show's main characters. Reid struggles with his attraction to a woman who may be involved in the criminal conspiracy he is investigating, while Jackson begins to question his loyalty to Reid in light of the inspector's increasingly risky behavior. Drake, meanwhile, stands steadfast by Reid's side, even as their investigation leads them into increasingly dangerous territory.

Overall, "Tournament of Shadows" is a gripping and well-crafted episode that showcases the strengths of the "Ripper Street" series. The show's attention to historical detail and commitment to complex character development are on full display, as is its ability to craft intriguing and suspenseful storylines. Fans of the series will not be disappointed, and newcomers will find plenty to enjoy in this exciting and satisfying episode.